Tag Archives: Goa

Uzbekistan Airways has officially announced the commencement of direct flights from Tashkent to Goa, set to operate twice a week from 27 October 2024. The new route, serviced by the advanced Airbus A320 Neo, will connect Tashkent to the Manohar International Airport (Mopa), opening up new avenues for tourism and cultural exchange between Uzbekistan and Goa. The introduction of these flights comes after consistent follow-ups with the Uzbekistan Embassy and tour operators and with crucial support from the Indian Embassy in Tashkent. The concerted efforts of the Goa Department of Tourism have played a critical role in making this connection a reality. In line with these efforts to expand Goa’s global reach, Goa Tourism will also be participating in the upcoming Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF). Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism welcomed this initiative, stating, “The introduction of direct flights from Tashkent to Goa marks a significant milestone in enhancing Goa’s connectivity with Central Asia. This new connection will not only boost tourism but also strengthen our cultural ties with Uzbekistan. We are committed to developing Goa as a well-connected and accessible destination for travellers worldwide.” Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism, Managing Director, GTDC, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, saying, “Uzbekistan Airways’ decision to commence flights to Goa underscores the growing global interest in our state as a prime tourism destination. This direct connectivity will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for visitors from Uzbekistan, making Goa more accessible and inviting.” This new route aligns with the state’s broader strategy to diversify the tourist base and promote Goa as a year-round destination. The Department of Tourism looks forward to welcoming an influx of tourists from Uzbekistan and showcasing Goa’s unique blend …

Skyscanner in its latest survey revealed a strong desire for destination weddings among Indians, with 85% of them either planning or have already had a destination wedding. Gen Z, in particular, is leading the charge, with 49% considering tying the knot at a stunning wedding destination, compared to 33% of Millennials. Goa tops the list of spots for Indian couples seeking a sun-soaked wedding celebration, followed by Dubai.

Rohan Khaunte, Tourism Minister, Goa, said, “The state is looking forward to tap new and emerging markets by participating in global trade fairs. During Covid-19, the international footfall in Goa was only 33,000, which has now increased to 4.5 lakh this year.” In the last four years, Goa has spent ₹63 crore to promote the state within the country.

FHRAI’s 54th Annual Convention will be inaugurated by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister for Tourism, GoI from 16-18 October. The theme of this year’s three-day convention is “Tourism @2047: Incredible to Inevitable India”. The event focuses on driving sustainable growth and innovation in India’s tourism sector.

Expressing their dismay against the proposal of 2 per cent sustainability fee, TTAG wrote to Goa’s Tourism Department stating, “Imposition of 2 per cent levy on every invoice will adversely affect our competitiveness and the compliance burden will increase. No other tourism destination in India’s inbound market levies such a fee.”

Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Goa, assured that the number of visitors to Goa has surged in the just-concluded tourist season touching the one crore mark. There has also been a rise in the number of international tourists, which is 150 per cent above pre-COVID figures. Goa continues to see the arrival of tourists in monsoon season as well.

KB Kachru, President, Hotel Association of India, said, “To beat the heat, residents of the Northern region seek refuge in the hills. Industry insiders estimate a 30 to 40% rise in summer travel compared to last year.” While Goa remains the top beach destination of choice, mountain destinations like Nainital, Rishikesh, Manali, Mussoorie, and Darjeeling are gaining traction for June trips, signalling a shift in traveller preferences towards serene mountain environments.

MakeMyTrip in its summer travel trends report declared Goa as the most popular destination among Indian travellers’ during summer. It termed Udaipur and Srinagar as the most searched destinations in the internet compared to the same period last year. The report identified the top destinations that have got travellers’ interest for the summer of 2024.

Around 3,000 meetings took place during GITM 2024 in Goa, where over 500 buyers and 300 sellers engaged in fruitful discussions and negotiations. Discussions were held on how Goa can contribute as a high-yield destination. From leveraging its natural beauty to capitalizing on emerging travel trends, the session provided valuable insights into positioning Goa as a top choice for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.  

Scheduled for the third quarter of 2024, Accor’s Novotel brand will see its footprint expand to three key cities with the openings of Novotel Goa Panjim, Novotel New Delhi City Centre, and Novotel Bhubaneshwar. This year, the company plans to further diversify its portfolio with six new hotels in three segments.